Bangkok: The government thanks the public for understanding the criteria for the "State Welfare Card." According to Thai News Agency, a poll shows over 40% are not angry, and affirms readiness to review the screening process and accelerate upskilling and reskilling for genuinely poor working-age individuals.

Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is grateful for the public's understanding of the welfare card eligibility screening system. A NIDA Poll by the National Institute of Development Administration found that 43.26 percent of respondents were not angry about not receiving benefits under the welfare card program.

Ms. Ploytalay stated that the government is prepared to review the screening process to ensure assistance reaches low-income individuals and the truly poor. The government will extend the validity period for eligible individuals and expand the appeals process. She assured the public that the government is attentive to feedback and is committed to a thorough data verification process before implementing new criteria. The State Welfare Card project has not been open for registration for approximately five years, leaving many eligible individuals without assistance.

The government highlights that the new database of state welfare cardholders is more detailed, allowing for accurate categorization by age group. Data indicates that out of over 9 million cardholders, more than 5 million are aged between 18 and 60, most without assets or income. This data will aid in formulating targeted assistance policies, focusing on upskilling and reskilling to improve vocational skills, create income opportunities, and enhance the quality of life for working-age state welfare cardholders, beyond merely providing welfare assistance, Ms. Ploytalay stated.